Workplace intrusion

This holiday season New Jersey employers and employees may find a lump of coal in their stockings thanks to a legislative proposal with a wonderful-sounding name -- paid family leave.
When someone takes paid leave, the workload doesn't change. In this market, it is unlikely that a qualified replacement, willing to take a job for a few weeks or months, can be found. Without someone to fill the position, those left at work will have to step up production or work longer hours. A bill heralded as something to help families would actually increase the demands placed on others, keeping them from their families.
How can a small businessperson be expected to balance a leave program that allows significant amounts of time to be taken on short notice? What about industries that require a license or a background check for employees, like emergency rooms, insurance agencies or casinos?
Employers and employees should ask their representatives to oppose paid leave legislation. For the employer, it's an issue for collective bargaining; for the employee, it's a tax on wages that may well result in increased demands in the workplace.